Wish the Wars Were All Over

Down by deep waters, where the sweet linden stand,
I saw pretty Polly, wringing her hands.
The song that she sang made the whole grove to ring.
My Billy has left me, to fight for a King.
And I wish the wars were all over.

I stood in amazement to hear what she said,
I'll follow my Billy, whether living or dead.
The notes that she sung were the nightingale's notes.
How the Lark and the Linnet, they warble their throats.
And I wish the wars were all over.

I said, My dear Polly, if you'll stay with me,
I'll make you as happy, as happy can be.
No, then she said, That never can be
I'll never be happy till my Billy I see.
And I wish the wars were all over.
And I wish the wars were all over.

Now from my parents, I'll hasten away.
I'll dress myself out in a young man's array.
And every company that I pass by,
I'll ask for my Billy, or where he does lie.

And every company that I pass by,
I'll ask for my Billy, or where he does lie.
And I wish the wars were all over.
And I wish the wars were all over.
And I wish the wars were all over.